I opt for heat cables, normally the tub has wheels and if you take them off you have a nice lip which enables you to tape the cable where you want it to be, if it gets too hot you can add a polystyrene tile between the tank and the cable. If you buy high sided you can cut holes in the lid to sink the light fittings in etc etc.
I find having one tank for water and another for soil/plants is much easier as well. It means you can lift the water area away for cleaning and it is not as heavy.
I have just purchased a mini water fall/pump for mine, I cannot wait to set it all up...got some nice river pebbles too.
If it is possible I will try to post photos but I only have a laptop webcam.

I am hoping that by giving Goober more space, a better water area and hunting area he will not get so bored of a night. He is a noisy tinker, always jumping up and bashing the sides of the tank. He´s become quite spoilt and will not eat unless I feed him by hand (with tweezers)...I´m hoping he will hunt a little.